The Philips Izzy BM5 is the latest addition from the company to create a more accessible path for those who want to start bringing a multi-room audio setup into their homes. The BM5 is the first among a whole range of “Izzylink” speakers that are to appear in the year 2016 which will be using the same system. At its price point, it is an unintimidating purchase, but when it comes to performance, there are other, better entry-level speakers on the market.
The Philips Izzy BM5 is an Entry-Level Multi-Room Speaker That Ultimately Does Not Sound Very Good
Before we dwell into its audio performance, let’s take a look first at the design qualities of the Philips Izzy BM5. Right out of the box, this is a cute device. It is a squat, curvy block of plastic that has a fabric-covered grille. Its small footprint will easily make it squeeze into a number of places inconspicuously.
Given its relatively tiny size and the use of Bluetooth, you may be surprised that this model does not have a built-in battery. As such, you need to have it connected to a wall socket at all times for it to work. Still, the main idea for this speaker is not about being portable.
The whole point of the Izzy BM5 is its Izzylink system. It is designed to create multi-room action quickly and easily without certain hassles like blocking off any services. It is as straightforward as any entry-level multi-room speaker you can get when it comes to using it. However, do not expect an easy setup route when using the dedicated app.
With its compact nature comes its less than appealing sound quality. But before anything else, let’s start with the positives. To start, it can achieve reasonably loud volumes, which is a surprise considering its size. It also has a decent level of low-end power with a speaker that has only two 2.5-inch drivers and a bass reflex port.
But aside from those, there are several flaws to this speaker. First, there is a zero sense of sophistication. In other words, its design is the type wherein you “Get What You Paid For.” There is not even the slightest hint of hiding the fact that it is within easy purchasing reach. There is also a flat and dead-sounding mid-range. There is also no 3D separation which you are likely to hear from a decent speaker. It also has a very undynamic sound, which other, smaller speakers do better.
Even though many can get the Philips Izzy BM5 pretty easily with the wallet-friendly price tag, this entry-level multi-room speaker is best left alone due to uninspiring sound quality and a less than satisfactory design.